Calls for Resignation of Sheriff Grow After Ten Inmates Escape from Louisiana Jail

Calls for Resignation of Sheriff Grow After Ten Inmates Escape from Louisiana Jail

In Louisiana, two Democratic lawmakers have formally demanded the resignation of Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson following a troubling incident where ten inmates escaped from the Orleans Justice Center. This event has sparked significant public concern about jail security and leadership accountability.

Alarm Bells Ring as Inmates Escape

On Monday, Louisiana House Representative Aimee Adatto Freeman, who serves part of New Orleans, publicly called for Hutson’s resignation. In her Facebook statement, Freeman characterized the escape as an “alarming failure of leadership” within the sheriff’s office. The escape, which occurred on Friday, prompted a swift law enforcement response, resulting in the recapture of five of the escapees within days.

Finger-Pointing and Accountability

Freeman emphasized that, as sheriff, Hutson’s primary duty is to maintain custody of inmates and that she has failed in that responsibility. “Rather than take accountability, she’s pointed fingers elsewhere,” Freeman stated. She criticized Hutson for attributing the incident to insufficient funding, despite reports indicating that her office currently holds $14 million in reserve. Freeman noted, “If she needed additional resources to ensure security, she could have simply asked. I would have fought for it. Blaming funding is a deflection – not an excuse.”

Public Safety in Question

Similarly, State Representative Jason Hughes, who also represents a portion of New Orleans, expressed bewilderment over the jailbreak. “How ten people can escape a jail is perplexing to me. But at the end of the day, this is a public safety issue and it boils down to leadership,” Hughes remarked, indicating the serious implications for community safety.

Hutson’s Stance and Future Plans

In response to the outcry, Sheriff Hutson took to the New Orleans City Council on Tuesday to accept responsibility for the jailbreak. She stated, “It is deeply troubling to me as your sheriff, and I know it is equally troubling to you and the public that we are sworn to protect. I take full accountability for this failure, and it is my responsibility to ensure this issue is addressed with urgency and transparency.” Hutson further reiterated that the community deserves answers and immediate action to address the situation.

Suspension of Campaign

In light of the growing controversy, Hutson announced on Tuesday evening that she is temporarily suspending her re-election campaign. This decision underscores the weight of the public and political pressure following the incident.

Current Status of Escapees

As of today, law enforcement has successfully recaptured Kendell Myles, Robert Moody, Gary Price, Dkenan Dennis, and Corey Boyd, leaving five inmates still unaccounted for. Boyd had been facing serious charges, including second-degree murder, at the time of his escape.

Outstanding Escapees

Despite the progress in recapturing some of the inmates, the following individuals remain at large:

• Escapee 1
• Escapee 2
• Escapee 3
• Escapee 4
• Escapee 5

The case raises critical questions about jail security protocols and the effectiveness of leadership within the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office. With continued public scrutiny and legal implications, the situation remains fluid.

Additional reporting contributed by Fox News’ Louis Casiano.